Level 2 Equine Groom Apprenticeship Standard

Level 2 apprentices will be entering a vocational industry, where they are expected to handle a variety of horses in different working environments. They must follow safe working practices and have the dedication, commitment and motivation to improve their knowledge, skills and behaviours to become a professional Equine Groom.

The Equine Groom apprentice will need to decide which sector of the industry they wish to join and select the appropriate occupational route. 

• Some experience volunteering or working with horses
• Good work ethic
• Be in employment and committed to a career in the equine industry
• Three GCSEs at grade D/3 or above

Learning will take place in a variety of ways, which could include workplace training, formal courses, work shadowing, industrial visits, research, self-study, attendance at College for classroom/workshop activities and time spent completing assignments set by the assessor. 

The qualification consists of: 

7 Core Knowledge and Skills units:

• Safe Working Practices
• Yard and Field Routines and Duties
• Horse Anatomy, Physiology and Welfare
• Horse Handling, Care and Appearance
• Saddlery and Equipment
• Travelling Horses
• Non-Ridden Exercise

5 Core Behaviour units:

• Safe Working
• Work Ethic
• Responsibility
• Team Work
• Communication

1 Chosen Occupational Route unit:

• Riding
• Non-Riding

This course will be delivered in the workplace and on-site.

College requirements are steel toe-cap boots, correct standard riding hat, gloves, schooling and jumping whip, and a body protector.

The apprentice will undertake their end-point assessment when the employer, training provider and apprentice all consider that they are ready to do so.  This stage of the apprenticeship is known as the Gateway and will not be reached until the apprentice has completed at least 12 months on the programme.   

The end-point assessment will be carried out by an independent assessor and will be made up of a multiple choice knowledge test (minimum pass grade 70% in order to proceed), practical observation (five hours) and professional discussion informed by a completed portfolio.  

Further study
You can progress to the next level apprenticeship or to further industry qualifications. 

Careers
You can advance your career in full-time employment in an equine yard.

For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk